Synagogue
For information on regular Shabbat services, please click here.
Havdalah Services are planned usually starting in November and concluding in March, dependent on Daylight Savings time. These occur once a month and several community synagogues, including Adath Israel, Beth David and Shaarei Shomayim, are involved. Parents, children and residents gather together to share the Havdalah blessings, sing songs, and sometimes even engage in craftwork together in the creative arts studio (which opens specifically to promote an intergenerational experience).
Holy Day Specific Synagogue Services
Traditional (Orthodox) services are held in the Worstman Hall in the Main Complex. The full liturgy is recited and orthodox traditions are observed. Tables are set up to assist all clients with managing the prayer books.
The Liberal (Reform) Service takes place in the Winter Garden Court. To meet the needs of our clients, these services are abridged (1 - 1.5 hours in duration) and are supported with a sound system which enables clients to remain on the balconies and still participate in the service. This service has seen a steady increase in participation. A large print, user friendly machzor, called "Spirit of the Heart", was designed for the High Holy Days offering the text in Hebrew, English and transliteration. There is also an adapted siddur for Shabbat.
For more information on Holy Day celebrations at Baycrest, please click here.
For Clients of Other Faiths
We continue to address the spiritual needs of the 50-60% of non-Jewish patients in the hospital. Currently, we have a multifaith chaplain as well as religious leaders of Christian, Roman Catholic, Muslim and other faiths providing support to both patients and staff. A Christmas dinner, an Easter tea, and ecumenical services are examples of holiday programs organized for these patients.
Slan Multi-Faith Room
This room is located on the first floor near the Silverman Garden Court. It is a calming space that honours the diversity of expressions of religious and spiritual practices and provides a flexible spiritual gathering space for people of all faiths for prayer, meditation, and study. Seniors, family members, volunteers or staff wishing to use the room can book it by contacting Jenny Pacheco at extension 2424.
Spiritual Care
Baycrest is committed to meeting the religious and spiritual needs of all our clients. We employ two Rabbis, a multifaith chaplain, and are also served by volunteer Chaplains who make spiritual care rounds on a regular basis. Residents of the Apotex Centre can also arrange for their own Rabbi to visit. For more information about our Spiritual Care services, please click here.